getting started with mix automation

[fishiface]

I've been recording local bands for a year or so, using a Yamaha 01V96 and an Alesis HD24. As I get more competant, the mixes are growing in complexity and I'm starting to look at mix automation.

I've got the 01V96 talking MIDI to a PC over USB and ave proved this works using Yamaha's studio manage software.

I would like a system where I can mix a track and record the mix actions using sequencer software, then replay all or part of the track and "tweak" the mix, with the sequencer recording the changes. When I'm happy with the result, I can replay the mix details and cut the master hands-free.

The HD24 generates MTC, which I hope to use to keep the sequencer in step with the recorder. It does not have a USB connector, so I need to use a 5-pin DIN MIDI interface on the PC. I've bought an M-Audio sound card that has these connections.

I _think_ that I need to use just one MIDI cable to connect the ADAT MIDI out to the PC MIDI in and one USB cable to connect the 01V96 to the same PC. The sequencer could then respond to the MTC and MMC from the HD24 whilst playing and simultaneously recording the MIDI from the desk.

Can anyone confirm that I'm on the right track, walk me through the basics and recommend a sequencer (hopefully freeware) that would allow this setup?

Thanks in advance,

fish

[richiebee]

That is incredibly convoluted.

I would go with a DAW. Get one of them caddy things that allow you to transfer the HD24 drive contents direct to your PC (I've tried lightpipe and ethernet - both incredibly slow methods of transferring) and then do everything inside the computer. Editing and mixing is so much easier inside a DAW than it is on an HD24.